Shipping safety tool developed by LINZ

A new tool for shipping safety has been developed by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ).

The Hydrographic Risk Assessment tool uses the latest technology to identify risks and help update navigation information.

It combines data from a variety of sources to produce heat maps of New Zealand waters where risks are highest, ensuring updates are given where they are needed most.

“It is important New Zealanders are kept safe at sea, and the Risk Assessment will help ensure skippers have access to the latest and most accurate navigation information,” said Minister for Land Information Mark Mitchell.

LINZ is focused on improving information for areas such as Queen Charlotte Sound, the Tory Channel, the Approaches to Auckland and Tamaki Strait, which were identified to have higher levels of navigational risk than other shipping routes in New Zealand.

“The tool also helps LINZ provide navigation services for New Zealand’s 4 million km² Exclusive Economic Zone, supporting our shipping, cruise and tourism industries,” said Mitchell.

“As vessels get bigger and shipping routes get busier, it is important we continually map the sea floor and update charts and other information.”

LINZ is working with Maritime New Zealand, harbour masters and others to assess results and plan other charting work.

Image credit: ©FreeImages.com/Roger Kirby

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